Two-Time Olympic Runner Ciara Mageean Dies at 34 After Cancer Battle
The Portaferry athlete passed away Sunday morning, less than three weeks after her marriage to Thomas Moran.
By Rafael Collins ·
Ciara Mageean died on Sunday morning at the age of 34, less than three weeks after marrying her partner Thomas Moran. The former European champion and two-time Olympic runner was surrounded by loved ones at the time of her death, according to a statement posted on her social media accounts.
Mageean, who hailed from Portaferry in County Down, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in May 2025. She represented Ireland in the 1500 meters at the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games. Her most recent major victory came in 2024 when she won the gold medal in the 1500 meters at the European Athletics Championships in Rome. She also competed for Northern Ireland at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where she secured a silver medal.
Tributes poured in from across the sporting community. Lady Mary Peters, the 1972 Olympic pentathlon gold medalist, described Mageean as a wonderful, gracious, and talented individual who inspired the next generation. Peters noted that while the athletic community knew Mageean was very ill, the speed of her passing was unexpected. The Mary Peters Trust, which supports Northern Ireland athletes, had provided financial and logistical support to Mageean throughout her career. Peters stated that the charity supported Mageean for as long as possible due to her recognized talent.
Sean Young, secretary of the Portaferry Gaelic Athletic Club, said members were in shock and disbelief. He recalled Mageean as a fierce competitor who began her athletic journey through the club before moving to the track. Young added that outside of competition, she was a humble and inspirational figure. The Down Gaelic Athletic Association called it a privilege to count her as one of their own, noting that her battle with illness demonstrated courage and positivity.
Her former school, Assumption Grammar in Ballynahinch, expressed deep sadness over the loss of a cherished past pupil. The school cited her kindness, strength, and faith as enduring qualities that inspired staff and students. Michelle O'Neill, the First Minister of Northern Ireland, described Mageean as a champion and role model who represented her country with pride. O'Neill said Mageean faced her diagnosis with the same bravery and determination she displayed on the track.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly highlighted Mageean's honesty and bravery in discussing her health. Micheál Martin, the Taoiseach, extended his sympathies to Mageean's husband and family, noting he was deeply saddened by her untimely death. Simon Harris, the Tánaiste, emphasized how Mageean gave strength and hope to others through her openness about her illness.
World Athletics and Athletics Ireland both praised her spirit and legacy. Conal Heatley, chief executive of Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland, told BBC News NI that Mageean carried herself with incredible dignity. Brian Molloy, president of the Camogie Association, recalled her as a great friend of the sport who touched the hearts of many with her self-belief and commitment.
Mageean had been named the 2023 BBC Northern Ireland Sports Personality of the Year after breaking national records and finishing fourth at the World Championships. Thomas Niblock, a BBC Sport NI broadcaster, recalled interviewing Mageean for a podcast in July. He noted that she recorded the segment despite receiving disappointing news the previous day, describing her as a one-off who was authentic and decent.
